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Best way to remove old superglue from bisque without further damage?

vivss

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Oct 28, 2025
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I have a German bisque doll from around 1890 with a repaired finger that was clearly done with superglue decades ago. I mean, the repair is sloppy, there's visible glue residue, and the finger alignment is slightly off. I want to redo the repair properly but I'm not sure how to safely remove superglue from bisque without damaging the porcelain or the original finish. I've read about acetone but I'm worried it might affect the paint or cause other issues
Has anyone successfully removed old adhesive from antique bisque? and what method did you use? on second thoughts, should I just leave it and work around the existing repair, or is it worth the risk to try and remove it?
The doll is otherwise in excellent condition and I'd hate to make things worse, but this repair really detracts from her appearance
 
I'd honestly consider sending just the hand to a professional restorer, the repair cost might sting, but you won't risk making it worse. If you do go the DIY route, use pure acetone not nail polish remover, apply it very carefully with a cotton swab only to the glue, and work slowly. That's all I have for now
 
Acetone will work but test it on an inconspicuous spot and don't let it soak. Look, if the repair is structurally sound, I'd just clean up the visible residue rather than redoing the whole thing, that's less risk of making it worse
 
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